An articular capsule (or joint capsule) is an envelope surrounding a synovial joint.

Layers

Each capsule consists of two layers:

• an outer layer (stratum fibrosum) composed of white fibrous tissue
• an inner layer (stratum synoviale) which is a secreting layer, and is usually described separately as the synovial membrane.

On the inside of the capsule, articular cartilage covers the end surfaces of the bones that articulate within that joint.

The outer layer is highly innervated by the same nerves which perforate through the adjacent muscles associated with the joint.

Diseases

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a disorder in which the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and stiff.

See also

• articular capsule of the humerus
• articular capsule of the knee joint
• capsule of hip joint
• capsule of temporomandibular joint
• atlantoaxial articular capsule
• capsule of atlantooccipital articulation

Additional images

References

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